Program Manager

Program Manager Southwestern Commission | Full-Time | $60,000-$70,000 Annually + Benefits Access to affordable housing is one of the most critical challenges facing communities across Western North Carolina. The Southwestern Commission is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented Housing Program Manager who wants to be part of the solution. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a direct and meaningful impact in our region by managing federal housing resources, coordinating with local governments and community partners, and helping turn housing plans into real projects. Housing experience is a plus, but it's not required. We're looking for someone who brings strong critical thinking skills, attention to detail, initiative, and a talent for solving problems. What You'll Do As Housing Program Manager, you'll oversee the Southwestern NC HOME Consortium, a regional affordable housing program funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). You'll play an important role in ensuring housing funds are managed responsibly and put to effective use in communities throughout the Southwestern Commissions 7-county region. Your responsibilities will include: Manage housing programs: Oversee day-to-day HOME Consortium operations, including planning, budgets, deadlines, compliance, and federal reporting. Move housing projects forward: Work with local governments, developers, and nonprofit partners to evaluate housing proposals, coordinate project requirements, resolve obstacles, and track progress. Manage funding and accountability: Monitor expenditures, maintain accurate records, and ensure program requirements and funding deadlines are met. Analyze information and solve problems: Research housing needs, evaluate data, interpret program requirements, and identify practical solutions. Build partnerships: Work with community leaders, housing organizations, and other stakeholders to advance regional housing initiatives. Support regional community development: Assist with related housing initiatives, grant programs, and regional planning efforts. What We're Looking For: The ideal candidate is someone who enjoys tackling complex challenges, takes pride in getting the details right, and can work independently while contributing to a collaborative team. Three qualities are especially important to us: Attention to Detail: You are thorough, organized, and committed to accuracy. You can manage multiple deadlines, maintain reliable records, and recognize when something doesn't add up. Critical Thinking: You know how to evaluate information, ask thoughtful questions, interpret complex requirements, and exercise sound judgment. Problem-Solving: You are resourceful and proactive. When challenges arise, you're willing to dig into the details, explore options, and find practical ways to move forward. We're also looking for someone who communicates clearly, works well with others, takes initiative, and is comfortable learning new systems and navigating complex requirements. Strong Microsoft Office skills are important, along with the ability to work with budgets, financial information, and detailed program guidelines. Qualifications A bachelor's degree in public administration, planning, business administration, finance, or a related field is preferred. An equivalent combination of education and relevant experience will also be considered. Experience in grant administration, project management, local government, community development, or housing programs is desirable. Prior housing or HUD HOME program experience is NOT required. We value transferable skills and recognize that strong candidates can come from a variety of professional backgrounds. We're willing to invest in someone who has the right skills, initiative, and willingness to learn. The position requires t avel throughout the region and occasional travel outside the region for meetings, site visits, and training. Why Join the Southwestern Commission? The Southwestern Commission is a regional Council of Government that has been serving the 7 westernmost counties in North Carolina for more than 60 years. We partner with local governments and communities to improve quality of life and strengthen to regions vitality and prosperity. As Housing Program Manager, you'll join a collaborative team dedicated to helping our communities thrive. You'll work alongside local leaders and housing partners, develop valuable expertise, and play a direct role in advancing housing solutions that matter to the future of Western North Carolina. If you're a detail-oriented, analytical thinker who enjoys solving problems and wants your work to make a meaningful difference, we encourage you to apply. How to Apply Salary Range: $60,000 to $70,000 annually, commensurate with skills and experience Position Type: Full-Time Deadline: Open until filled To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to Becca Scott, Director of Community and Economic Development, at becca@southwesterncommission.org Southwestern Commission is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of any class protected by federal, state, or local law.